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How to fireproof your Christmas Tree

11/27/2023

Don't be a statistic this year - learn how to fireproof your Christmas tree

According to the National Fire Protection Association, numerous house fires, injuries and even deaths are caused by Christmas tree fires.

This article from HomeShow Garden Pros details how to keep your family and your tree safe during the holidays.

Tips include information on choosing the right tree, keeping the tree well-hydrated, checking your decorations, and location of the tree plus a Fire-Resistant Tree Recipe that will keep your live tree fresh and fragrant for longer.

Credit: HomeShow Garden Pros

Gifts for the gardener

11/27/2023

'Tis the season to find the perfect gift for the gardeners in your life (including you)!

Santa Maria Novella Firenze 1221 - sublime botanical scents are in every product from this Florence, Italy company. One of their most special products are little scented wax tablets infused with botanicals like winterberry, roses, and pot pourri. The tablets are ideal for imbuing closets and drawers with a subtle yet notable botanical smell and last for years. $38 for a box of two.

The Gardener's Gripe Book - first published in 1995 - this fun read is as current today as the day it was written. Filled with musings, advice, and comfort for gardeners, this fun and inexpensive book is something all gardeners will relate to and enjoy reading on any day of the year. $11.87 at Amazon.

"...the author points out in her tongue-in-cheek book, you can't trust the experts, nothing looks like it does in magazines and catalogs, trends change more often than hemlines, and Mother Nature always wins."

Grampa's Weeder - one of the best gardening tools on the market (been around since 1913!), the original "Grampa's Weeder' (that's not a typo - the product is called "Grampa") is a stand up weed puller tool with a long handle. The handle is made of sustainable bamboo and the 4-claw head is made of steel. Built to last, easy to use, saves your back and knees because there is no bending, pulling, or kneeling needed. Tens of thousands of five star reviews on Amazon. $39.99

Regenerative Gardening 101 Class - this class by local company Blossom and Branch is offered as a series of online courses you can take at your own pace, and comes with a printable workbook. Includes information on building soil, the function of ecoysystem, minimizing pesticides and fertilizers, and regenerative practices for all four seasons. Highly recommend. $69.98 includes lifetime access.

Gift cards to local nurseries and garden centers - let them choose their plants or gardening supplies with a gift card to a local garden business. See our Resources page for a listing of local garden centers.

CSU poinsettia sale set for December 2nd and 4th

11/27/2023

CSU horticultural students hosting the annual poinsettia sale - a 25 year tradition

The quintessential holiday season flower - poinsettias - are coming into full bloom now, and CSU has thousands of them for sale on December 2nd and 4th.

According to CSU, the poinsettias are grown at the CSU Horticultural Center in Fort Collins where students learn the ins and outs of growing and caring for the crop. The class teaches intensive greenhouse production, including watering, fertilization, handling pests, and maintaining soil pH so the plants grow big and healthy.

The sale runs Saturday, Dec. 2 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Monday Dec. 4 from 3-6 p.m. Location: CSU Horticulture Center, 1707 Centre Ave., Fort Collins, CO. Price: $15 for 6-inch pots, $20 for 8-inch pots. Cash, check and credit cards accepted.

We're grateful for the gardeners this Thanksgiving

11/22/2023

To those who grow food, flowers, and plants to nourish the earth, our bodies, and our spirits, thank you. Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at Black Forest Garden Club.

1950's Thanksgiving Recipes

11/16/2023

It's interesting to see how much vegetable dishes have changed over the years.

People actually ate a lot of vegetables in the 1950s, despite the popularity of jello salads. But many of the recipes relied on fats - butter, creams, bacon, cheeses, as per the old recipes.

To get a sense of what was typical on a Thanksgiving dinner table we looked into vintage veggie recipes.

Here are some blast-from-the-past recipes you'll likely remember from your own childhood - or heard your parents and grandparents talk about (and you may still eat today at your Thanksgiving dinner):

Braised celery hearts
Creamed peas and carrots
Steamed roasted acorn squash
Creamed onions
Pear salad (complete with Maraschino cherry on top)
Potatoes
Sweet and Sour green beans
Swiss cheese and tomato bake

Happy Thanksgiving from your local Black Forest Garden Club. May the holiday feed your soul.

Blooms and Branches in expansive embroideries

11/15/2023

Extraordinary embroidery with real flowers, leaves, and branches

The art world serves all walks of life, including gardeners.

In the new series Graft by artist Olga Prinku, oversized embroidery hoops are the backdrop for creating art using natural matter with embroidery as the technique.

See this outstanding botanical artistry up close here.
Prinku's website is here. Look at the collections under the "Artworks" tab.

The artist's book Dried Flower Embroidery: the Art of Flowers on Tulle is available here.

A reminder about powdery mildew-ed leaves on the ground

11/15/2023

Powdery mildew is very difficult to eliminate, so keep things clean to eliminate its spread to other plants and trees.

Removing every trace of powdery mildew-ed leaves from your trees, shrubs, and/or plants is difficult to do, but giving it your best shot is important to prevent the spread of this fungal disease and it's spores in your garden or landscape.

Powdery mildew creates a white powdery substance on the leaves of plants and trees, which affects the plants' ability to produce energy through sunlight (leading to stunted growth and reduced yield and making the plant/tree look unwell and not very aesthetically pleasing).

Cleaning every leaf is usually recommended to treat the problem, but not very feasible on most plants and trees. One of the best ways to deal with powdery mildew is to remove all traces of leaves after they've dropped in the fall/winter. Practicing good 'ground hygiene' now will help the overall health and vigor of the plant or tree next Spring.

Use a leaf blower or rake and even your hands to gather together all affected leaves under and around your plants/trees that had leaves with powdery mildew. Your goal is to get rid of every affected leaf, bud, fruit or vegetables the best you are able. Put them in the trash - don't compost.

Next Spring, make sure your plants have good air circulation around them, and avoid any kind of overhead watering to help contain the spread of this disease.

How to care for a Christmas cactus plant

11/15/2023

Christmas cacti are popular houseplants known for their vibrant blooms that typically appear around the holiday season.

Here's a guide on how to care for a Christmas cactus and get it to bloom around the holidays.

Light: Christmas cacti prefer bright, indirect light. A location near a window with filtered sunlight is ideal. Avoid placing the plant in direct sunlight.

Temperature: An environment with temperatures between 60-70°F is ideal. Avoid exposing the plant to drafts or sudden temperature changes.

Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Allow any excess water to drain away. Reduce watering slightly during the dormant period after blooming.

Humidity: Provide humidity by placing a tray filled with water and pebbles near the plant or by using a humidifier.

Soil: Repot the plant every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its container using a potting mix formulated for orchids (slightly acidic).

To encourage blooming provide 12-14 hours of darkness per day for about 6 weeks leading up to the desired bloom time. Once buds form, return the plant to its regular light conditions. Christmas cacti typically have a dormant period after blooming. During this time, reduce watering and avoid fertilizing to allow the plant to rest.

Fertilization: Feed your Christmas cactus every 2-4 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Reduce or stop fertilizing during the dormant period (fall and early winter).

Pruning: Pinch back segments after blooming to encourage a bushier growth habit. Remove any damaged or leggy stems.

Gratitude hike at Lincoln Mountain Saturday November 11

11/9/2023

It's going to be a beautiful day for a calming hike!

You may remember our recent article back in July about the amazing flowers and hiking at Lincoln Mountain just a half hour away from Parker (you can read that article here).

A great new hiking opportunity at this Douglas County park is being put on by Douglas Land Conservancy this Saturday November 11th.

The "gratitude hike" will include the loop on the upper mesa to the special gratitude bench. The hike is 4.2 miles but is easy except for a little bit of uphill. A wonderful opportunity for a late autumn hike enjoying this beautiful place!

Lincoln Mountain Open Space is located at 7333 Jones Road, Franktown CO 80118.

Register here.

Reminder to gardeners: keep moving for good health

11/9/2023

Our active gardening season may be over, but continue to stay active to keep healthy for now and for next garden season too.

Gardening is an outstanding way to stay active and healthy. Come late fall/early winter, you are likely more sedentary that during the months of gardening season.

But a wealth of research has proved that movement is key to maintaining a positive outlook, healthy joints, and an overall quality of life.

"The day you stop moving is the day your start dying" is an oft-heard phrase that resonates with most. Gardeners especially understand the benefits of staying active in everyday life.

Remember to get out in nature each day, engage in some form of movement or stretching, maintain a healthy weight, and importantly, listen to your body so you are in great shape for the upcoming gardening season.

Extraordinary images of the 'secret kingdom' of soil

11/9/2023

Soil like you've never seen it before

"Soil is the most species-rich habitat on Earth, yet its inhabitants are relatively undiscovered," according to this 5-minute read from CNN Travel.

Photographer Andy Murray delights in exploring the biology, biodiversity, and unseen beauty of mites, nematodes and the like. His website can be found at A Chaos of Delight.

The photographs and information provided by the CNN Travel article and Mr. Murray's website are nothing short of incredible, and you be quickly drawn into his world of extremely tiny creatures that live in our soil. Be sure to share with kids!

Don't miss the information on why not to get rid of soil mites (because they break down plant materials and are important indicators of soil health).

Enjoy.

Mason jar 'greenhouse' - a great gift idea!

11/9/2023

These mini greenhouses are great for herbs

Mason jars have long been popular for growing things like sprouts, but you can use them as an easy and space-efficient way to grow herbs.

Creating a mason jar greenhouse for growing herbs is a fun and eco-friendly DIY project.

Mason jars are excellent containers for small-scale herb gardening as they provide a clear, compact, and attractive growing environment.

Create a charming mason jar greenhouse to grow your favorite herbs right on your windowsill. It's a great way to add fresh, homegrown herbs to your culinary creations while also adding a touch of greenery to your home decor. Great as gifts!

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to make a mason jar herb greenhouse:

Materials you'll need

Mason jars with lids
Herb seeds or small herb plants
Potting soil or seed-starting mix
Small rocks or pebbles (for drainage)
Activated charcoal (optional, for water filtration)
Herb labels (optional)
Watering can or spray bottle
Sunlight or grow lights

Instructions
Select Your Herbs - choose the herbs you want to grow (popular choices include basil, parsley, mint, thyme, and oregano). You can either start herbs from seeds or purchase small herb plants from a nursery.

Prepare Your Mason Jars - clean your mason jars thoroughly, removing any labels and ensuring they are dry. You can use jars of various sizes depending on your available space and the herbs you want to grow.

Create Drainage Layer - place a layer of small rocks or pebbles at the bottom of the mason jar. This helps with drainage, preventing root rot. If you want to further improve drainage, add a thin layer of activated charcoal on top of the rocks.

Add Potting Soil - Fill the jar about two-thirds full with potting soil or seed-starting mix. Make sure the soil is slightly moist, but not soggy.

Plant Your Herb Seeds (or herb plants if you purchased plants from a nursery) - carefully plant your herb seeds or small herb plants into the soil, following the recommended planting depth (one per jar). Use your finger to create holes for the seeds or plants.

Water Your Herbs - water the soil lightly, making sure it is evenly moist. Don't over-water - a little less is more in this case. You can use a watering can or a spray bottle to avoid over-watering.

Label Your Herbs - if you're growing multiple herbs in different jars, consider labeling each jar with the name of the herb and the date of planting. This helps you keep track of your herbs.

Assemble the Mini Greenhouse - place the mason jar lid on the jar without sealing it tightly. This lid will act as a mini greenhouse cover, creating a controlled environment for your herbs. It will trap moisture, allowing the herbs to thrive.

Provide Adequate Light - herbs need plenty of light to grow. Place your mason jar greenhouse on a sunny windowsill or use grow lights if natural light is limited. Herbs typically require 6-8 hours of sunlight each day.

Care and Maintenance - monitor your herbs regularly for moisture and growth. Water only when the soil feels slightly dry to the touch. Keep an eye out for any signs of pests or disease and address them promptly.

Harvest Your Herbs - once your herbs have grown to a sufficient size, you can start harvesting them by snipping off leaves or stems as needed. Be sure not to take more than one-third of the plant at a time to allow it to continue growing.

BONUS CLEVER IDEA: Another way to grow herbs and seedlings is by using a simple 'hydroponic mason jar connector' kit. This inexpensive connector screws two mason jars together to create the high humidity environment that plants and seedlings love. Instructions for how to are in the link provided.

Which kind of mulch is best for your garden and landscape?

11/9/2023

There are a lot of mulch options out there.

Many articles about mulch don't explain what makes a good mulch. This article is focused on using mulch around plants, shrubs, and trees, but it can also be used for walkways, paths and borders. We've tried to keep a focus on environmentally-friendly in our recommendations.

Why Use Mulch?
Mulch is a regulator. It regulates moisture, temperature and weeds. Most plants like consistency in soil moisture levels and soil temperature and they don’t like competition from other plants. Mulch helps control all these things. Applying mulch will improve the growth and productivity of your plants and protect them from temperature extremes.

What is a good mulch?
A good mulch should allow water to pass through from above but minimize evaporation from the soil. It should be biodegradable and heavy enough to stay in place in moderate winds, and, if used on a hillside, it should stay in place. Most people want it to look nice too.

Let’s look at some materials commonly used as mulch and examine the pros and cons of each.

Plastic
Plastic sheeting controls evaporation and suppresses weeds for a while but it doesn’t allow water to permeate and isn’t biodegradable. There is plastic mulch around my house put down by the previous owner that is just as tough as the day it was applied (been in the house 28 years). It is very difficult to remove and once it has been down a few years it accumulates enough dirt from runoff and airborne dust to support weed growth whose roots will penetrate the plastic. When you go to plant something else you will have to remove it or cut an opening. This stuff is not recommended.

Landscape Fabric
Many of the same issues as plastic although it does allow water through. It’s main use is to suppress weeds and can be hidden by another mulch. But weeds still grow through it after a few years and they are very difficult to remove when they do. In addition, it keeps mulch from “sticking” so is problematic for use on slopes. Not recommended.

Rocks, Stones, Gravel, Sand
They allow water through and regulate moisture loss and temperatures but tend to heat up hot days and radiate the heat back to the plant. They don’t suppress weeds well (recommend using Preen or other pre-emergent to prevent weeds from taking hold). Rocks sometimes get buried in the soil and if not put down generously, and take effort to move away or remove. Rocks do have a place in xeriscapes and desert environments or next to structures. They are an outstanding choice for fire mitigation around your home. You can read a comparison between rock and biodegradable mulch here. Recommended with reservations.

Cardboard & Newspaper
Biodegradable and suppresses weeds well until it breaks down, which it does in two to three years. Allows water through and reduces evaporation fairly well. Usually free if you use flattened cardboard boxes or old newspapers. Is best covered with a thick layer of another mulch as it isn’t pretty and tends to dry out and blow away if left exposed. Recommended in place of plastic or fabric.

Editor's note: Recently, cardboard has become controversial when used as a mulch. Here are two recent articles that address the science of cardboard used as mulch. LA Times What's the fastest way to kill your lawn? and The Garden Professors™ Cardboard Controversy.

Grass Clippings
Perform well as a mulch but wet clippings tend to form a moisture impermeable mat so it’s best to wait for them to dry before applying. It’s free but there is also the possibility of introducing weed seeds. Recommended, but prefer compost to clippings.

Compost
Whether store bought or homemade, compost is a great mulch with the added benefit of adding organic material and nutrients to the soil as it breaks down. Homemade compost can introduce weed seeds if it doesn’t reach a high enough temperature to kill them. Free if you make your own. Not a fan of the plastic bags with store bought, but usually high quality. Recommended.

Straw & Hay
Straw is a good mulch but it tends to introduce weed seeds - especially wheat seeds. Run it through a leaf shredder which makes it easier to spread and improves evaporation control by being denser. Adds organics and nutrients as it breaks down. Best used in the garden if you don’t want the bright golden color in your yard. Recommended straw mulch. Note: Hay, even spoiled hay, has too many weed seeds to make a good mulch. Don't recommend hay for mulch.

Wood Products
Includes wood chips, shredded bark, wood shavings, and sawdust. Each makes a good mulch and lasts a long time but be aware that wood tends to leach nitrogen out of the soil as it breaks down (which it does very slowly). Wood mulch that has not been dyed is preferred. Sawdust tends to form a mat much like wet grass clippings because it is so fine. These products are generally flammable so keep them away from structures. Recommended, but be aware that they are not fire mitigation safe.

Leaves
Also called leaf mold, these are fallen leaves from deciduous trees. They make a great mulch and are free but best shredded with a leaf shredder or a mulching lawn mower as the large leaves tend to form an impermeable mat when wet. They also tend to blow away if not contained, and are flammable.

Pine Needles
Pine needles make a very good mulch especially if they are run through a leaf shredder. They stay in place, last a very long time, keep weeds down, and blend in nicely with the landscape. They can also help reduce the alkalinity of soil as they are somewhat acidic. You can purchase pine straw in bales, but chances are you can get locally bagged pine needles from neighbors in our area. One caution for pine needles is that they are highly flammable so don’t apply them close to structures. Recommended.

Final Notes About Mulches

Most mulches are most effective when applied thickly - to a depth of 2-6”. No mulch lasts forever (except rock mulch), so plan to refresh it over time.

Mulch applied right up to the trunk of a tree (called a "mulch volcano") causes problems over time (stressed roots + rotting trunks = unhealthy trees = increased susceptibility to (otherwise minor) insect and disease problems and structural instability = more money to treat + increased probability of tree death). Here's a helpful article about mulch volcanoes.

Many experts advise mulching perennials and shrubs in the fall to prevent frost heave over winter. Wood chips, compost, straw, shredded leaves and pine needles are good for this but should be contained with a collar or cage to keep it from blowing away.

Flammable mulches can be treated with a boric acid solution to reduce their flammability.Recipes can be found on the internet. Here’s one we've found useful.

You can purchase many of these products from big box stores, but unless you only need a couple of bags, do yourself and the environment a favor and order in bulk. It is less expensive and keeps the single use plastic bags out of the landfill.

Thanks to guest writer Dennis Volz for this article.

10 best tools for picking up leaves in your yard

11/3/2023

Spend less time and effort raking leaves with these cool tools

Fall is a wonderful season to leaf-peep and enjoy watching the seasons change. It's another story when it comes to cleaning up the leaves, however.

This timely article on best tools for efficiently cleaning up your yard's leaves will have you reconsidering the old leaf blower and wanting to try a new, clever tool instead.

10 favorite tools to clean your yard this season:

Leaf Grabber
Tarp Tugger Handles
EZ Leaf Hauler Reusable Tarp
Portable Leaf Blower
Garden and Yard Leaf Scoops
Leaf Gulp
Mini Rake
Push Lawn Sweeper
Pool Leaf Skimmer
Reusable Garden Waste Bags

Credit: HGTV

Baked apple chips recipe

11/3/2023

Crispy baked apple chips is a great way to save money, reduce processed snack consumption, and make your house smell like a cinnamon heaven

You don't need much to make a batch of baked apple chips. This recipe is healthy and easy with only four ingredients.

Baked Apple Chips
2 firm, medium sized apples (any sweet-crisp apple will work i.e. Pink Lady, Gala, Fuji, or Honeycrisp)
2 teaspoons of granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Pinch of nutmeg

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 225 degrees F. Core apples and slice into very thin rings.
Place the apple rings on a silpat or parchment paper lined baking sheet in a single layer.
In a small bowl, mix together sugar and spices. Sprinkle over apple rings.
Place the baking sheet in the oven. Baking time will depend on the thickness and water content of your apple slices. They should be done in 1 ½ to 2 hours. You’ll know they’re finished when they’re crisp.

Notes:
Store your crunch apple chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Baking the chips at a low heat is key to crispy success.

Enjoy these chips on top of salads, with oatmeal, and right out of the container. These chips are budget-friendly, easy to make for groups large and small, healthy yet slightly sweet, and a kid-friendly snack that's easy to carry.

Credit: Plant Based on a Budget

Bats are beneficial - 31 reasons to value them

11/1/2023

Did you know that bats are the good guys?

According to a recent article published by Colorado State University, "bats are often vilified due to their spooky association... a depiction that has costly impacts. These misunderstood mammals are in decline {and} their value is underappreciated. Bats play a critical, positive role in all environments around the world.

At Colorado State University, bats are a central focus of several research efforts, including ways to protect and advocate for bat populations, the role bats play in infectious diseases, and their role in ecosystems.

The article lays out the many benefits of bats in fascinating detail (including that they are the only mammals capable of flight, they are not blind as is commonly thought, and at least a dozen species in the U.S. are in decline or listed as endangered).

Read the article here and please share it with others too.

CBS Sunday Morning segment "For the Love of Bats" is an interesting and timely take on these awesome creatures. Watch it here.

Black Forest Garden Club's resource on How Home Gardeners Can Help Bats is here.

Holiday porch pot workshop coming November 18 at Tagawas

11/1/2023

Unleash your inner designer with a holiday porch pot workshop

This class will teach you how to arrange a stunning winter planter to make your porch or patio pop for the season! Starting with a stylish white container, you’ll learn how to arrange fresh evergreen boughs and seasonal embellishments to take home something with that personal touch.

Limited to 14 participants.

Details:
Fee: $50 reservation ($70-$140 finished project range)
Workshop Dates & Times:

Saturday, November 18 | 3:00-4:30pm – click here to reserve your spot
Sunday, November 19 | 2:00-3:30pm – click here to reserve your spot
Thursday, November 30 | 11:30am-1:00pm – click here to reserve your spot

How to dispose of old pumpkins in an environmentally friendly way - here are ideas

11/1/2023

**The U.S. grows and sells 1 billion pumpkins each year. When thrown into the trash they go into a landfill where they emit an enormous amount of methane gas - a potent greenhouse gas.**

Instead throwing pumpkins in the trash, consider:

Composting is an excellent option, as it allows pumpkins to decompose naturally, enriching the soil and reducing methane emissions.

The National Wildlife Federation recommends cutting it up into pieces and leaving it in a composting area in your yard that animals cannot access. Covering with leaves helps the nutrients to soak into the soil.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife also has a page on how to dispose of pumpkins here.

Donate pumpkins to ranches - local ranches will take pumpkins as animal feed. However, if there is paint or wax on the pumpkin, the ranches won’t take it because it’s toxic to the animals. Try Peachy Farms in Parker for this.

Also - Nextdoor has several local people wanting pumpkins for their goats. Search Nextdoor for Theresa Garcia in Elizabeth (willing to pick up), Alexis S. on London Dr., Karen Cranham also on London Dr., Renae Friedrichs (London Dr.) or Veronica Bartlett in Little Parker.

Don’ts

Leave out your pumpkin for wildlife or feed it to wildlife
Though some people create “snack-o’-lanterns” to feed critters such as birds and squirrels, be aware that leaving your pumpkin out can attract unwanted wildlife as well. Bears are especially attracted to pumpkins as they are looking to add on a few more pounds before the winter season.

Use these tips to sustainably dispose of your pumpkin, but keep in mind that with Thanksgiving right around the corner, pumpkin pie is also a good option.

By being mindful of how we handle pumpkins after use, we can help reduce the environmental impact of this seasonal fruit.

How to make a DIY hydroponic system

10/25/2023

Interested in growing plants indoors without soil?

Hydroponic gardening is a method of growing plants without soil, using a nutrient-rich water solution to deliver essential minerals and nutrients directly to the plant's roots. This technique has gained popularity because it offers several advantages over traditional soil-based gardening, including:

Water Efficiency: Hydroponic systems use significantly less water than traditional soil gardening because water is recirculated within the system.
Space Efficiency: Hydroponics allows for vertical and compact growth, making it ideal for small spaces or areas with poor soil quality.
Faster Growth: Plants in hydroponic systems often grow faster and produce higher yields due to the direct access to nutrients and optimal growing conditions.
Controlled Environment: Hydroponic systems enable precise control of environmental factors like temperature, humidity, and lighting, which can lead to healthier and more predictable plant growth.

The key to success in hydroponic gardening is understanding the specific requirements of the plants you are growing and selecting the appropriate system and nutrient mix to meet those needs. Growers can cultivate a wide range of crops, from herbs and leafy greens to fruiting plants like tomatoes and peppers.

There are a number of different kinds of hydroponic systems out there, but for DIY hydroponic systems a "deep water culture" system is recommended because it has a "gentle learning curve and allows you to grow a wide array of plants.

To learn about the best plants for hydroponics and instructions for how to easily build your own system using readily available materials, click here. Article comes with great photos for visual reference and excellent 'pro' tips.

Remember that it's ok to start with only one or two kinds of plants to begin. You can always add more variety of plants later.

Credit: HGTV

Q & A - Is it too late to plant bulbs?

10/25/2023

If you miss the best time to plant spring bulbs, go ahead and plant them anyway

The best route to success with spring flower bulbs is to plant them at the optimum time. Ideally, bulbs should be planted at least six weeks before hard, ground-freezing frost can be expected in your area.

The bulbs need time to root and establish themselves. On the other hand, planting bulbs too early can lead to fungus or disease problems. A good rule of thumb is to plant bulbs when the average nighttime temperatures are in the 40- to 50-degree range. At that point the soil temperature should be just perfect for tucking bulbs in for their winter's rest underground.

If you miss planting your bulbs at the optimal time, don't wait for spring or next fall. Bulbs aren't like seeds. They won't survive out of the ground indefinitely.

Even if you find an unplanted sack of tulips or daffodils in January or February, plant them and take your chances. No matter what, they're better off giving it a fighting chance in the ground or a chilled pot than wasting away in the garage or cupboard.

Flower bulbs are survivors by nature's design. Every year stories abound of bulbs that bloom after being planted under the most improbable circumstances.

— The Netherlands Flower Bulb Information Center via HGTV

Alternatively, you can take those bulbs and make an indoor display with them through forcing (see photo above). Our article on forcing is here.

How to force bulbs for winter color and fragrance indoors

10/24/2023

Forcing bulbs indoors encourages blooming earlier than they naturally would outdoors.

If you want gorgeous amaryllis or paperwhites to be blooming for upcoming holidays, now is the best time to start 'forcing' them. You might also want to force bulbs like tulips and hyacinths in early December to brighten up your winter months.

Select your bulbs: Choose the type of bulbs you want to force. Common choices include tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, and crocuses in addition to the popular amaryllis and paperwhites commonly found in stores and garden nurseries this time of year. Ensure the bulbs are firm (not at all squishy).

TIP: Not all bulbs are suitable for forcing, so choose varieties known to perform well indoors. Additionally, each type of bulb may have specific chilling requirements and care instructions. Here's a good selection of bulbs for forcing.

Containers: You can use a variety of containers, such as pots, bowls, or glass vases. The size and depth of the container depend on the type of bulbs you're forcing. Be creative! For example, a crystal salad bowl filled halfway with fresh cranberries in water (not the dried kind) will force paperwhites beautifully and look festive for the holidays.

Planting: Plant the bulbs in well-draining potting mix OR rocks. Bulbs don't have to be in soil to force as long as the roots are kept moist and the water level just below the bottom of the bulb (not touching the bottom of the bulb). You can plant them close together, but avoid overcrowding. The bulbs should be partially exposed above soil if you are using that medium.

Chilling Period: Most spring-flowering bulbs require a chilling period (10 - 15 weeks) to simulate winter. Roots form and stems lengthen during this cooling period. Place the planted bulbs in a dark, cool location, such as a refrigerator or root cellar, for a specified duration. The duration varies depending on the type of bulb - here is a 'chill guide' for you to follow.

Check for Roots: After the chilling period, you may notice roots starting to develop. This is a good sign that the bulbs are ready to grow.

Forcing Phase: Once the chilling period is over, move the bulbs to a location with indirect light and temperatures between 50-60°F (10-15°C). Gradually increase the light exposure to encourage growth. After a few weeks, you can move them to a brighter location with warmer temperatures.

Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Water whenever the top inch of soil feels dry. If forcing in water, all you have to do is keep the water level just below the bottom of the bulbs - don't let the water dry out.

Blooming: It can take a few weeks to several months for bulbs to bloom. Keep an eye on their progress and adjust light, temperature, and water as needed.

Enjoy the Blooms: Once the bulbs start to bloom, move them to a location with indirect light to prolong the flowering period. You can also display them in a more prominent location in your home.

Aftercare: After the forced bulbs have finished blooming, you can plant them outdoors in your garden at the appropriate time (usually Fall in our area). Clean the bulbs and their roots with your fingers, and store in a cool dry place in a box with newspaper or shredded paper. However, already forced bulbs may not bloom again the following year because forcing weakens the bulbs.

Here's a great beginner's guide resource to forcing bulbs indoors including chilling and bloom times.

Compost (most) fall yard waste and get great soil in return

10/19/2023

Give yard waste the opportunity to give back to the garden

As the growing season winds down and you prepare your landscape for winter, you may find yourself with a lot of yard waste. Instead of bagging it and tossing it into the garbage, why not make that yard waste continue to benefit your plants by composting?

What to put in your compost bin:

Leaves
Grass clippings
Straw
Plant debris

While you’re at it, you can also add food waste from indoors, like coffee grounds, fruit peels and cores, and vegetables.

What not to compost:

Any plants which are diseased, such as plants with powdery mildew
Large pumpkin and squash vines, which may take too long to decompose in your backyard compost
Weeds that have gone to seed

Food waste that should never go into your backyard compost includes, but is not limited to, meat, bones, pet waste, dairy, or fats.

What’s in it for me?
Once the process is completed, your compost is best used in one of two ways:

Mulch – Spreading a layer of compost can help your garden or landscape retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Soil amendment – Colorado’s dry, clay soil benefits from adding compost. It helps the soil retain moisture and improves air flow. Work your compost into any planting hole or bed.

Why it works
Compost needs time to mellow or break down, whether it is tilled into the soil or applied atop it. It can create a homogeneous soil mixture ripe with microbial activity. This process does not add many nutrients to the soil but improves the soil's capacity to hold onto both nutrients and water. It improves the root zone. That’s what makes it so beneficial to your landscape.

Plus, by composting at home, you can reduce waste, save landfill space, and improve your landscape in the process.

Perennials you want to cut back in Fall

10/18/2023

Cutting back some plants and shrubs helps to reduce disease and pests before their next growing season

Not all plants need pruning/cutting back in the Fall (in fact, some don't prefer it and may perform poorly after winter is over). But there are plants and shrubs that like to be cut back in the Fall to perform at their best in Spring.

Bee Balm (Monarda)
Blazing Star (Liatris)
Catmint
Daylilies
Garden Phlox
Hostas
Irises
Lavender
True Lilies
Peonies

For detailed information on each of these plants and why it is best to prune them back in Fall, click here.

Before pruning any plant or shrub, it's important to research its specific needs and the best time for pruning in our area, as timing can vary based on climate and local conditions. Pruning should be done with clean, sharp tools to make clean cuts and minimize stress on the plants.

Winter flowering plants

10/18/2023

Numerous sunny days during winter means some plants continue to bloom, bringing a spot of color the dormant garden

Some flowers bloom even winter. Maybe not in the absolute coldest periods of the season, to be sure.

These plants are hardy enough to continue blooming for a good part of the year when all other plants do not:

Winter Jasmine: a deciduous shrub that produces bright yellow flowers during the winter months.
Christmas Rose (Hellebore): Christmas Rose (pictured above) is a hardy perennial with white or pinkish flowers that bloom in winter.
Pansies (Viola): cold-tolerant annuals that can often bloom throughout the winter in Colorado if protected from severe cold.
Snowdrops: small, early-blooming bulbs that can pop up even through snow.
Crocus: Crocuses are small spring-flowering bulbs that can bloom as early as late winter, depending on the variety.
Camellias: evergreen shrubs that produce beautiful, rose-like flowers in various colors during the winter months.
Bergenia: Also known as "elephant's ears," Bergenia has evergreen leaves and produces pink or white flowers in late winter or early spring.
Japanese Quince: Japanese Quince shrubs can produce bright red, pink, or orange flowers in late winter.
Primroses: these hardy perennials bloom in a range of colors during the late winter and early spring.

When planting winter-blooming plants, consider providing some protection from harsh winter winds and snow, especially if your garden is at a higher elevation. Choose microclimates in your yard that receive sun and are sheltered from harsh weather conditions to encourage winter flowering. Mulching and care during the warmer parts of the year will help these plants thrive and bloom when the cold months arrive.

Vintage glass transformed into lush flowerscapes

10/18/2023

'Read' this articles for the photos

Colossal, an arts and culture website that explores 'visual culture', brings us this article about artist Amber Cowen whose vintage glass pieces are used as the medium for creating incredible lush environments.

Click below to take a look at her glass flowers/creations. They are next level.

Teeming with Flourishes, Narrative Sculptures by Amber Cowan Revitalize Vintage Pressed Glass

Credit: Colossal

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Give yard waste the opportunity to give back to the garden

Cutting back some plants and shrubs helps to reduce disease and pests before their next growing season

Numerous sunny days during winter means some plants continue to bloom, bringing a spot of color the dormant garden

'Read' this articles for the photos

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**The U.S. grows and sells 1 billion pumpkins each year. When thrown into the trash they go into a landfill where they emit an enormous amount of methane gas - a potent greenhouse gas.**